Anyone Living with Alzheimer's Disease is at Risk of Wandering

The Alzheimer’s Association says that six in 10 people with dementia will wander.  The danger with this is someone with Alzheimer’s disease may not remember their name, their address or how to get home.  Furthermore, the more agitated the person becomes when they feel lost and disorientated, the less able they may be to tell someone something that could help get them safely back home.  

Experts say anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia that is mobile is at risk for wandering.  Even if the person is in the early stages of the disease, they may still get disorientated; but thankfully there are strategies to help keep your loved one safe.  

It is important to have a plan in place in the event that it should happen to your parent or another loved one.  Find out if your area has a “Safe Return Program” and enroll them in it and have them wear a GPS locating device at all times.  Also, learn to recognize the warning signs of potential wandering such as: has the person forgotten how to get to familiar places, talks about going home even when they are home, gets confused as to where familiar places in the home are, and acts nervous or anxious in crowded areas.  

Tips to help prevent wandering include creating and sticking to a routine, identifying the times when wandering is most likely to occur, and trying to make sure all of the person’s needs are met so they don’t feel the need to go out.  In addition, reposition door locks out of the line of sight and make sure car keys are not left out.  You can buy a device that sounds an alarm when a door or window is opened; and never leave the person locked in at home or in a car alone.   

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offers memory care in a secure environment that allows residents to safely explore their surroundings, including an enclosed courtyard. In addition, our dedicated staff is trained to keep residents engaged and safe. Please visit our website for more information about MorningStar and our compassionate, loving memory care.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

Source: alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/wandering 

How Seniors in Memory Care Can Get a Better Night's Rest

Our bodies need sleep, especially as we age. It is certainly frustrating when we can’t seem to fall asleep or stay asleep for long. Not getting enough rest leads to bouts of irritation and can even lead to depression or anxiety surrounding bedtime. This Assisted Living facility in Colorado has been named “Alzheimer’s Association Leader in Dementia Care” because of their progress and dedication to top rated memory care. If you find yourself with poorer sleep than you would like, MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care works with these tips to combat pesky sleep problems in seniors with memory loss.

If you aren’t getting enough sleep at night, chances are you are taking many naps during the day to make up for your restlessness. While naps may seem like an easy solution to a sleepless night, they can actually hinder you in the long run. Limiting your naps during the day can help your body prepare for sleep later in the day. 

With dementia or Alzheimer’s, it may be difficult to get seniors to move around as much as they once did but focusing on activities that help seniors move their bodies is a good way to help them feel tired and fall asleep later in the day. Staggered walks throughout the day can help to make the body and mind feel tired later. If mobility is limited, arm exercises and stretches are another way to help move the body and are very low risk. 

MorningStar focuses on holistic dementia and Alzheimer’s care that is dedicated to helping residents affected by memory loss. Under their holistic mantra of “Lavender Sky,” MorningStar explores a person’s life, history, and preferences to offer personalized care and explore ways to involve and engage family members, knowing our service is as much to them as to the residing senior. Memory care facilities such as MorningStar Senior Living of Littleton, is a reliable assisted living community that is actively working to combat the issues surrounding sleep and dementia through holistic methods of care. 

Contact us today if you want to know more of the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting and the security that comes from residing in an assisted living community focused on Alzheimer’s care. MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Littleton Co takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you. 

To learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Littleton, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Iowa. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.

Finding the Right Gift for a Loved One with Memory Impairment

If you want to get something special for mom or dad or another loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, it can be challenging to figure out a good gift. This is where the Internet can lend a hand with a range of items designed to enhance your loved one’s quality of life. 

Dementia care specialists say it can take a little more time and some creativity but there are many great gift ideas. One idea is personalized gifts or memory-filled ones. A photo album filled with pictures of the person surrounded by people important to them, or a picture book from a place they loved to visit. A coffee mug personalized with a photo or a cozy throw filled with favorite family pictures are also good ideas.

Music from their younger years, show tunes and old movies are sure to make them smile and can be a good way to spend an afternoon together listening to their new gifts. Coloring books filled with pictures of things they love such as animals or flowers, and a set of new markers or crayons, and easy-to-do crafts are also fun to do together.  

Another item targeted to people with Alzheimer’s or dementia is therapy stuffed animals.  Designed to meet their special needs, one example is a teddy bear that comes with a few classic songs but has room to load a person’s favorite tunes (up to a 1,000 songs). Cuddly robotic cat and dog stuffed animals have a calming, soothing effect on people in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer's disease. Research shows they can help the person remember a time in their life when their purpose included caring for others.  

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides compassionate and loving care to those suffering from memory impairment. The Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of memory care residents, allowing them as much independence as possible.   Our specially-trained care team understands that the essence of the person still exists despite the memory loss, and will strive every day to connect with and nurture that essence. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

When is the Best Time to Place a Loved One in Memory Care?

Dementia care specialists say they are often asked when is the best time to place a loved one in memory care. The simple answer is it is different for each person as well as for each family. They add that while there is no definitive answer, there may be a downside to waiting too long and typically there is not a problem moving a person into memory care in the early stages. 

Experts recommend families start the search for senior living communities offering specialized memory care once the level of daily care needed has surpassed that of what a family can effectively and safely provide. Caring for a loved one with dementia is both physically and emotionally challenging for family caregivers, and caregiver burnout is a real problem that can impact the caregiver’s health and wellbeing. Placing a person in a community specializing in dementia care allows family members to ease their role as caregiver and instead spend quality time with their loved one. 

It is important to keep in mind people in the later stages of Alzheimer’s lose a lot of their mobility. A petite woman trying to help her husband with the activities of daily living such as bathing, toileting, and dressing is difficult and can result in injuries to both of them. A designated memory care community can handle all of these tasks as they have the training, staff, and equipment to safely assist residents and prevent accidents.  

Another common problem Alzheimer’s patients have is a tendency to wander. This is again an example of how memory care communities are equipped to handle the problem. They have areas designed for residents to safely move about in but are secure in terms of wandering away from the community and getting lost or hurt.   

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides specialized, compassionate care to those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Every aspect of our Reflections Neighborhood is designed to meet the need of residents from meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, they deserve the best care. Please contact us or visit our website to learn more. 

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating true homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

Seniors Find Home at Littleton

Littleton is ranked the 8th best small city in America and named the top spot for retirement and senior citizens. This Colorado city is minutes from downtown with shops and restaurants and is surrounded by Marston Lake and South Platte River. If you are looking for the best Alzheimer’s care, MorningStar Memory Care and Senior Living Littleton Colorado offers the finest modern and holistic senior living Littleton, Colorado has to offer. If you are considering memory care or Alzheimer’s care for a spouse or loved one, MorningStar of Littleton, Co should be at the top of your list. 

MorningStar of Littleton has been named “Alzheimer’s Association Leader in Dementia Care” by The Alzheimer’s Association. To be so designated for this award, a senior living community is required to enroll 75% of its staff in an eight-hour training that encompasses brain pathology, communication techniques, and methods of lessening agitation with non-pharmaceuticals. Colorado is the only Alzheimer’s Association chapter in the country offering this special program. MorningStar of Littleton is proud to have earned this special recognition of our expertise by creating a welcoming and safe home for seniors dealing with memory loss and Alzheimer’s. 

MorningStar’s Reflections Neighborhood offers 20 memory care suites for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. All our suites were recently renovated with beautiful upgrades from new brushed nickel hardware & glamorous light fixtures to grab bars and new flooring. The Reflections neighborhood offers a safe community with extra resources and necessities to ensure comfort for our residents in Alzheimer’s care. 

The kitchens also have upgraded white shaker-style cabinets, directional track lighting, exquisite quartz countertops, and stainless-steel refrigerators at MorningStar Senior Living Littleton Colorado. We also upgraded the furniture in our theater room, added new appliances and cabinets to our life enrichment rooms, and upgraded paint throughout. Stop by to visit our newly renovated community.

Contact us today if you want to know more about the built-in companionship, predictable budgeting and the security that comes from residing in an assisted living community. MorningStar Senior Living retirement homes in Littleton Co takes care of the worry and stress of aging, allowing you more time to do the things you love. Whether it’s fulfilling a calling, finding a new opportunity through volunteerism, or spending time with friends and loved ones and relaxing, contact us to schedule a tour of our community near you. 

To learn more about MorningStar’s social activities and retirement communities in Littleton, contact our staff who are happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other retirement facilities in Colorado. We encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Littleton, Colorado.

Specialized Memory Care at MorningStar of Wheat Ridge

At MorningStar of Wheat Ridge, we proudly offer the finest senior care with assisted living and memory care suites.  As experienced specialists in caring for those with memory loss from Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related diseases, our community is equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease right through to the most advanced stages.

Our loving and compassionate team considers it their calling as well as their privilege to care for your loved one.  MorningStar’s holistic approach to memory care incorporates some of the most respected research-based care programs available. Our comprehensive care also includes assisting families to better understand and cope with the disease.  

When a resident joins our community, we spend time with them and their family to learn as much as we can about their life before the memory loss including their talents, vocation, and preferences.  From there, we create a daily care plan based on their needs and designed to stimulate or calm in response to their mood or situation.  We know that whatever the form of dementia, a person’s essence remains and our calling is to find ways to connect with and nurture that essence.  

Among our many wellness programs and activities, MorningStar is proud to partner with the Alzheimer’s Association in every market in which we serve, including MorningStar of Wheat Ridge. Along with fund-raising for local chapters throughout the year, we participate in their core initiatives like The Longest Day and Walk to End Alzheimer’s. 

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge understands that receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia can be devastating to a family, but we want you to know we are here to help.  Please contact us for more information.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows Offers Loving Memory Care

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows is proud to offer exceptional assisted living and memory care.  Our parent company, MorningStar Senior Living, operates senior living communities throughout the Western U.S.  This means MorningStar at Mountain Shadows benefits from the extensive knowledge and expertise our company has gained in their 19 years of operation regarding all facets of senior living, including a deep understanding of Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. 

MorningStar has earned a reputation as trusted dementia care specialists, and we feel it is our calling to provide care to our most special residents.  By devoting a separate area to memory care called our Reflections Neighborhood, residents have the independence to safely move about their expansive surroundings.  To ensure our residents safety and well-being, services include daily health monitoring and around-the-clock staffing as well as a secure courtyard to allow them to enjoy being outdoors.

Once a resident joins our MorningStar family, we sit down with them and their family to get to know as much as we can about them including their history, vocation, talents, and preferences. From there we create a daily routine designed to stimulate or calm as a situation requires. Residents are also treated to tempting meals consisting of finger foods and family-style dining for a stress-free, companionable dining experience. 

Our holistic approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky,” and is how we thoughtfully enter, embrace and explore the entirely different and isolating world of dementia.  Providing loving support for our residents, we enter with insight and intentionality as we step into their “purple world” and cross over the physical and emotional boundaries that would otherwise separate us.  We also feel it is our job to help support our residents’ families.  Along with education, we show them how to follow our lead and enter into the world of their loved ones.

We accept residents in the earliest stage of the disease right through to those in more advanced phases that require the highest level of care.  Furthermore, everything we do is in a loving environment that affirms the dignity and value of the individual.  For trusted memory care or assisted living Colorado Springs area seniors can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us for more information about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs offers.

The Importance of Eating Healthy Proteins

Information on what constitutes a healthy diet continues to evolve as researchers discover more and more about the human body and how it reacts to the food we consume and the way it affects the aging process. Not too long ago, medical professionals touted diets low in fat and high in carbohydrates. Now newer studies emphasize the role protein plays in our overall health and the importance of eating healthy proteins.   

Experts say the best proteins should contain vitamins and minerals. Cesar Sauza, clinical nutrition manager of health education and wellness at AltaMed Health Services in Los Angeles, explains his "top go-to protein foods sources are fatty fish like salmon, tuna and sardines.” A 3 oz. A serving of tuna steak contains 24 grams of protein and salmon 17 grams of protein. Fatty, cold water fish also contain omega-3s; fatty acids that help maintain eye and brain health as well as heart and circulatory health. Omega-3s DHA and EPA are linked to brain and cardiovascular health. 

Another item back on the menu is eggs. Cage-free eggs are a good source of protein (one egg has 6 grams), fairly inexpensive, easy to prepare and provide several essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin A, vitamins B2, B5, B6 and B12, folate, phosphorus and selenium.

Bean and legumes are other easy ways to get your daily dose of protein and are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals, and antioxidants. They can help you lose weight as they contain a carbohydrate known as “resistant starch," that like fiber, is hard to digest and makes us feel fuller longer.

Other healthy suggestions for protein include low-fat dairy products. Along with the probiotic benefit, Greek yogurt has almost twice the protein as regular yogurt along with calcium and is typically fortified with vitamin D. Nuts and seeds are also loaded with protein, vitamins and minerals. Dieticians say if you eat meat, concentrate on lean meat and avoid processed ones like bacon, ham, deli meats, and hot dogs. 

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, residents enjoy resort-style amenities, care services, wellness programs and activities. In addition, we are proud of our five-star dining service, which includes healthy meals made largely from scratch using the freshest ingredients. We also make it a priority to use foods that have been recognized by the medical community to support brain health and have a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. For trusted memory care or assisted living Colorado Springs seniors can count on, please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest memory care and assisted living Colorado Springs has to offer.

Source:health.usnews.com/wellness/food/slideshows/top-healthy-protein-rich-foods

A Senior’s Grocery Habits May Expose Underlying Issues

The everyday routine of grocery shopping, cooking, and eating a meal may become difficult with old age. Going to the supermarket may become a chore for seniors as it can become exhausting and overwhelming. Did you know that your elderly loved one’s grocery shopping habits may expose their need for assistance or assisted living? Skipping meals altogether, having spoiled food in the house, or often eating readily available snack foods is a cause for concern and may mean it’s time for increased help in your senior’s life. 

Grocery shopping assistance for seniors has increased in recent years. With the help of delivery apps and grocery stores branching out to do their deliveries, many seniors can complete their shopping trips with ease. However, the issue arises when your loved one forgets to order groceries, allows food to spoil regularly, and stops cooking meals for themselves. If you are experiencing concern over your elderly loved ones eating habits, an assisted living facility may be a good place to explore for help. 

We understand diets alter as we age. However, your loved one should never be at risk of malnutrition or excessive hunger. Assisted Living is the best choice if your parent or spouse needs more personal care than they can get (or afford) in the home or an Independent Living community but doesn’t yet need 24-hour medical care and supervision. Our Community Relations team has the knowledge and resources to walk you through the qualification criteria of Assisted Living, both financially and medically. A licensed nurse can ascertain the appropriateness of Assisted Living through a medical assessment.

MorningStar Assisted Living and Memory Care at Jordan Creek proudly brings the finest assisted living West Des Moines has to offer with modern retirement homes and assisted living that incorporates resort-style amenities such as providing residents with three daily meals prepared by our Executive Chef and served restaurant-style in our dining room. As well as extracurricular activities such as a gym, community rooms for socialization, and a salon. 

Contact us to learn more about MorningStar’s retirement homes and assisted living options in Des Moines IA. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history and vision, as well as what sets us apart from other senior living facilities in Iowa.  

The unique mission statement of MorningStar at Jordan Creek, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage you to see for yourself our exceptional offering for independent and assisted living in Des Moines, Iowa.

Healthier Options to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

The U.S. News and World Report published an article on tasty treats designed to satisfy your sweet tooth and provide a healthier alternative to more sugar laden desserts. One suggestion from board-certified oncology dietitian, Kailey Proctor, of the Leonard Cancer Institute at Providence Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo, California, is to grill pineapple, banana, apple or pear slices. Grilling concentrates flavors by reducing the water content, and further sweetens the fruit as natural sugars are caramelized by the heat.  

Dark chocolate is a known powerful source of antioxidants as research shows it can help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and raise HDLs, reducing your risk for heart disease. One healthy, easy-to-make dessert is to melt dark chocolate and spread it over parchment paper. Then sprinkle dried cherries, chopped nuts or sunflower seeds over it; refrigerate for five minutes and cut into small pieces. Another variation is to dip fresh strawberries or other fruit into melted dark chocolate. 

Yogurt parfaits are fun to put-together and can be customized to your taste. Using a parfait dish or small bowl, add granola, strawberries, blueberries, nuts, peanut butter or seeds, layering with yogurt. To cut down on fat, use nonfat or low-fat yogurt as it still provides a good source of protein without the calories. 

How about banana ice cream made from frozen pureed bananas mixed with almond milk? If you like, add in peanut butter and nuts. Sprinkle some cinnamon on top, which is “thought to have anti-inflammatory effects and may help diabetics manage their blood sugar levels.” 

MorningStar of Mountain Shadows, an assisted living and memory care community in Colorado Springs, offers beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities. Our many services include meals designed by our Executive Chef and made largely from scratch with the freshest of ingredients. We also use “BrainWise Foods” known to support brain health with their high concentrations of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Please visit our website for more information about senior living. 

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs.

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/fitness/articles/healthy-dessertsand-theyre-tasty-too

Trusted, Holistic Memory Care in Colorado Springs

Along with assisted living, Colorado Springs’ MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offers individualized care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Our Reflections Neighborhood has 19 secure memory care suites, and we are equipped to care for residents from the onset of the disease to the most advanced stages. 

MorningStar’s holistic memory care is personalized and compassionate supported living under what we call Lavender Sky, which is the way we thoughtfully enter, embrace, and explore to find purpose and encouragement in every aspect of daily routine. As dementia care specialists, we deeply understand the disease and know regardless of the extent of memory loss residents deserve to be treated with kindness, respect and dignity. All team members are trained in MorningStar’s brand standards of Lavender Sky and in the pathology of dementia and brain disease. Caregivers provide 24/7 assistance with eating, bathing, dressing and have the tools to calm or stimulate a resident as needed.  

The Reflections Neighborhood was designed to provide a secure setting yet permit residents to explore their spacious surroundings freely and easily. Residents especially enjoy being outdoors in the enclosed courtyard.  We offer a wide selection of meaningful wellness programs as well as purposeful activities including a variety of exercise options, music, life skills, art, and entertainers. 

Mealtimes are as much about Community as they are about Nutrition, with residents and team members eating together.  Family style meals allow team members to encourage residents’ appetites as well as to provide any needed assistance with eating.  In addition, much of our food is modified out of respect for some of our residents’ compromised eating abilities and includes finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look. 

If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, we know you want the very best memory care; and we consider it our privilege to walk alongside your family on this challenging journey. Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful home, our team and our company’s philosophy of caring for seniors. 

MorningStar Senior Living’s communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest memory care or assisted living Colorado Springs offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Mountain Shadows. 

MorningStar Offers Compassionate Memory Care in Wheat Ridge, CO

While there is not a cure for Alzheimer’s and many other dementia-related diseases, it is important to provide the person with the proper level of care.  Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Wheat Ridge offers compassionate memory care. Our Reflections Neighborhood has the amenities and services to ensure the comfort, safety and wellbeing of our most tender residents.  

As dementia care specialists, our approach and philosophy to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  All team members, regardless of their position, receive Lavender Sky training, which includes a deeper understanding of the disease and communication techniques to use with memory-impaired residents.  It also includes training in environmental safety and security as well as holistic solutions to challenging behaviors.  

An important aspect of our program is to provide plenty of recreational and purposeful activities such as music, life skills, art, entertainers and exercise.  To ensure our residents safety and well-being, services include daily health monitoring and around-the-clock staffing as well as a secure courtyard reserved just for memory care residents.  

Mealtimes in the Reflections Neighborhood are as much about Community as they are about Nutrition, with residents and team members eating together.  Family style meals allow team members to encourage residents’ appetites as well as to provide any needed assistance with eating.  In addition, much of our food is modified out of respect for some of our residents’ compromised eating abilities and includes finger foods, texture-modified diets and easy-to-recognize balanced meals that taste as good as they look. 

Also, bear in mind that we accept residents in the earliest stage of the disease right through to those in more advanced phases that require the highest level of care.  Furthermore, everything we do is in a loving environment that affirms the dignity and value of the individual.  Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide exceptional assisted living and memory care.

MorningStar Helps to Change the Image of Assisted Living

 Older adults may have grown up with a skewed image of what senior living looks like. Media, such as television and movies, often portray assisted living and retirement homes as drab, outdated communities with sterile walls and decoration. There is often a stigma associated with moving to assisted living, but MorningStar at Jordan Creek is changing the narrative and strives to empower future residents with their decision making to live in assisted care and build individualized care plans based on their needs. 

MorningStar at Jordan Creek’s assisted living in Des Moines is modern and lively as we encourage our residents to participate in community involvement and hobby exploration. Residents in assisted living are typically independent but may need help with meal preparation, medication scheduling, personal hygiene assistance, or upkeep with chores and errands. While staying in assisted living at MorningStar, these worries can be handled while you enjoy our resort-style amenities and meaningful skill building programs and activities. While staying in senior living and assistant care, you can benefit from participating in social interactions and activities geared towards your interests and passions without worrying about household upkeep or struggling to complete tasks on your own. 

Assistant care at MorningStar in Des Moines is flexible. Every senior’s needs are different and range in intensity of need as their life changes. Choosing to stay in our assisted living guarantees that your care will be able to change as your needs change, without question or rigidity. While your needs may change over time, you can still maintain your independence. Nursing homes are defined by around the clock care by nurses. In MorningStar’s assisted living, you have the choice of living in modern individual suites and living your life as you normally would but with a helpful hand by your side to make sure you are happy and healthy. 

Please contact us to learn more about our assisted living at MorningStar at Jordan Creek and our modern amenities we offer that host and encourage healthy senior living in Des Moines, IA. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other retirement homes Des Moines, IA offers.  

MorningStar at Jordan Creek proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors, and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Des Moines, IA has to offer.

MorningStar Offers a Lifestyle of Comfort, Wellness and Community

Some people think a move to an assisted living community signals an end to their independence but nothing could be further from the truth. At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, we respect the fact that seniors have spent a lifetime living independently, raising families, working jobs, and making their own decisions, and consider it our job to continue to help them lead full, purposeful lives. 

We know many of the challenges that come all too often with aging. Worsening medical conditions, failing eyesight, hearing impairments and mobility problems as well as the death of a spouse or friends can make it tough for seniors to live on their own. Isolation and loneliness can bring on feelings of hopelessness and depression; have a negative impact on mental health, and even affect quality of life.

As one of MorningStar’s assisted living residents, you will receive the personal daily care you need to help maintain your independence. Our services include help with the ADLs (activities of daily senior living) such as bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, continence, eating and more. Our trained care managers are there to help navigate any changes in your health and ensure you get the proper level of care you need. Along with extensive care services, MorningStar offers a broad range of wellness programs and activities designed to enhance physical, intellectual, spiritual, and social connectivity. 

MorningStar’s scheduled transportation services, medication management, and pharmacy services make it easy to safely get to important doctor visits, and keep prescriptions filled and dispensed as needed. Residents also enjoy the built-in companionship and numerous perks of community living, including all day dining with healthy and delicious meals served restaurant style.  Amenities include a fireside patio, bistro, library, chapel, theatre, and private dining room for intimate dinners. 

Located in beautiful Colorado Springs, MorningStar at Mountain Shadows offers 45 private assisted living suites in a variety of floorplans.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, we have 19 memory care suites devoted to the individualized, specialized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.  

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs.

Your Pet is Part of the Family at MorningStar

Have you or a loved one made the decision to move into an assisted care facility but worry about what to do with your furry friend during this transition? Pets are often seen as part of the family and bring us a lot of joy, regardless of our age or stage in life. Not only are our pets companions, but they can also help us maintain healthy lifestyles because we recognize the tremendous ministry animals are to all of us. 

MorningStar in Des Moines, IA is a pet-friendly senior living facility and we enjoy seeing our residents out and about with their beloved pets. In fact, having a companion animal around encourages a healthy routine in seniors. Taking a dog out for a walk each day boosts daily steps which helps overall health while reducing a sedentary lifestyle. Knowing this, MorningStar at Jordan Creek offers a spacious backdoor courtyard where you can play with your dog and participate in wonderful walking paths surrounding the community.

Caring for your pet provides a sense of purpose and something to look forward to. Family members of residents in assisted living often worry about their loved ones becoming lonely or depressed during their transition from their home. Being pet-friendly allows our assisted living residents to create a routine and something to look forward to when caring for their pets. Simple tasks such as daily grooming, feeding, and playtime with a pet add meaning to our lives. Having pets by their side gives our senior living residents in Des Moines, IA an enriched life. 

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek our care services provide a lifestyle of comfort and wellness. Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar or our pet requirements. Some communities have a weight limit on pets, and we need to assess an animal’s appropriateness for our community on a case-by-case basis. There are also some restrictions on breeds. Our staff is happy to answer any questions you have. Our website also provides information on our company’s history, vision, and mission as well as what sets us apart from other retirement homes Des Moines offers.  

MorningStar at Jordan Creek proudly provides the very best in assisted living and memory care with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors, and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us for more information about one of the finest retirement homes Des Moines, IA has to offer.

Assisted Living May be a Healthier Lifestyle for Mom or Dad

As people grow older, their needs change and many require help with daily personal care activities.  This can present a dilemma in families as some elderly seniors firmly state that they do not want to move into assisted living.  However, when the pressure to assume caretaking responsibilities continues to grow for family members and even safety is a concern, they may have to look into alternatives.   

It is important to know that research shows assisted living can be a healthier lifestyle for seniors than living alone.  They have access to 24/7 care as well as the benefits that come from socializing with others.  In addition, keep in mind that your parent’s home may need costly modifications to make it safe for them to continue to live there while assisted living communities are designed to address those needs.  Moreover, along with the assistance they need with daily personal care, communities such as MorningStar of Wheat Ridge provide a range of wellness programs and activities that support residents’ mental, physical, spiritual, and social connections. 

In addition, wholesome, nutritional daily meals as well as housekeeping and laundry services mean your parents will have their basic needs met seamlessly.  Lastly, something often overlooked regarding assisted living is that with the proper assistance, rather than your parent’s fear of losing their independence becoming true, they will actually get it back.  Also, by getting the needed assistance from the staff, it allows families to just enjoy spending time together without the added responsibility of being caregivers.  

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge is proud to offer seniors a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Options include 45 assisted living private suites in a variety of configurations including studio, and one and two-bedroom floor plans.  In our Reflections Neighborhood, devoted to caring for seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, we have 19 secure memory care suites. Please see our website for more information.

MorningStar of Wheat Ridge’s mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living communities. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, we provide outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ Assisted Living

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows’ goal is to provide the best assisted living in the area, and we are committed to the comfort, wellbeing, and safety of our remarkable residents.  To accomplish this lofty goal, our approach takes into account every aspect of senior living from the design of our gorgeous community to a broad range of care services, amenities, and wellness programs.  In fact, Ken Jaeger, MorningStar Senior Living’s Founder, had specific ideas on how to foster the ultimate environment for the wellbeing of seniors and it is the guiding spirit in which our community operates.

For assisted living residents, private suites are available in studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans. Each suite has a handicap-accessible bathroom, ceiling lighting, wall-to-wall carpeting, and large windows.  Suites also include a kitchenette with refrigerator, 24-hour emergency call system, and a private heating & air conditioning system.  Cable TV and utilities are included in your monthly fee as well as weekly housekeeping, laundry and linen services, and daily spot cleaning and trash removal. 

At MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, our assisted living offers five levels of care.  Your level of care will be determined after a thorough assessment with our Wellness Director and in agreement with you and your extended family.  Also, regardless of your level of care, we provide all residents with around-the-clock Care Managers to meet your needs and ensure your comfort and safety.       

As a resident of MorningStar, you will get three daily meals designed by our Executive Chef and prepared largely from scratch.  Each meal is nutritious as well as delicious and recipes are modified to address a number of different dietary restrictions including low sodium or low fat, sugar-free, no sugar, and vegetarian options.   In addition, residents will have the opportunity to participate in a range of activities and programs that are designed to promote physical, intellectual and spiritual wellness.   

Add to that, our dedicated team members who are the heartbeat of our community and the kind of people who come to work each day with a smile on their face.  They understand it is a privilege to serve and many come to know and treat our residents as they do their own moms and dads.  As a true home, we consider our residents, their families and team members to be part of the MorningStar family.  Please see our website for more information about our exceptional community.  

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows provides the very best in senior living with our distinct mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve to create an atmosphere that promotes a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Please contact us to learn more about assisted living or memory care at MorningStar.

Five Numbers You Should Know That Impact Your Health

Medical experts say there are five numbers adults should know that can impact their health. Dr. Deepak L. Bhatt, editor-in-chief at the Harvard Heart Letter and part of the interventional cardiovascular programs at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital, explains, "For my patients, I typically look at their blood pressure, blood sugar, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides values, and their waist circumference."  

While there are specific recommendations, doctors also say the ideal values are good goals for most people but your doctor may suggest different numbers based on your age and other health conditions. Current recommended blood pressure numbers are less than 120/80 mm Hg. Systolic blood pressure is the first number and diastolic blood pressure the second number, and together they measure how hard your heart is working and the condition of your blood vessels. High blood pressure (HBP) can damage blood vessels and increase a person’s risk for a stroke or heart attack. 

Your LDL cholesterol numbers should be less than 100 mg/dL and your triglycerides less than 150 mg/dL. A cholesterol test is done through a blood draw after a person has fasted and if both your numbers are high, it increases your risk for a heart attack or stroke. Another important number is your blood sugar levels, which is how diabetes is typically diagnosed. Doctors say blood sugar levels should be less than 100 mg/dL.  

Finally, the last number you should pay attention to for better health is your waistline measurement. Experts say the circumference should be either lower than: less than half your height in inches; or for women less than 35 inches, and for men less than 40 inches. The problem with big numbers is what doctors call “abdominal or visceral obesity” typically an indication of fat surrounding the internal organs. Use a tape measure placed just above your navel (belly button) to get your number. 

MorningStar at Mountain Shadows, a Colorado Springs assisted living and memory care community, provides residents nutritious meals, resort-style amenities, wellness programs and activities that promote a healthy, engaged lifestyle.  Staffed by a dedicated team who understands it is a privilege to serve seniors; we encourage you to visit our website for more information regarding floor plans, list of amenities, pricing and availability. 

This post is intended for informational purposes only.  Please contact your health care provider with any questions or concerns you have regarding your health. 

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about exceptional assisted living and memory care in Colorado Springs.

Source: health.harvard.edu/blog/5-numbers-linked-to-ideal-heart-health-20211216266

Are You Concerned About Memory Loss?

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends that anyone worried about memory loss to make an appointment with their health care provider.  While we all know it is scary just thinking about the possibility of having Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, the Alzheimer’s Association has a list of reasons why it is to your advantage to know.  

The process for getting a diagnosis starts with a full evaluation with a healthcare provider that includes your medical history and any medications you are taking as well as a series of mental status tests.  If the initial evaluation indicates problems, your doctor will recommend further physical and neurological exams, diagnostic tests and brain imaging.

One of the top reasons to be evaluated for Alzheimer’s disease is your symptoms may be from another treatable cause.  If it is determined you have Alzheimer’s, experts explain while there is no cure for the disease, there are treatment options that can lessen the symptoms including memory loss and confusion for a limited time.  Also, they say an early diagnosis gives you a better chance of benefiting from treatment.

An early diagnosis also means you may be eligible for clinical trials that could provide some medical benefit.  In addition, recent research suggests that certain lifestyle changes such as “controlling blood pressure, stopping smoking, participating in exercise, and staying mentally and socially active, may help preserve cognitive function.”   

Perhaps most importantly you will have more time to plan for your future and to do things now, rather than wait.  Planning for the future also helps family members know what your wishes are and prevents future feelings of guilt or arguments over your care.  The Alzheimer’s Association adds that an early diagnosis can save your family and the U.S. Government money spent on care.        

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Littleton provides loving memory care in our Reflections Neighborhood for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. With activities, programs and meal services tailored to our residents’ special needs, we bring a deep understanding of the disease to our care.  For trusted senior living Littleton, CO seniors can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

Our mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior living Littleton, CO offers. We have built a foundation on honoring God, valuing our seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Set in a warm, loving atmosphere with beautiful surroundings and resort-style amenities, MorningStar of Littleton provides outstanding assisted living and memory care. 

Source: alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/why-get-checked

Receive the Care You Need at MorningStar’s West Des Moines’ Community

Does your elderly mom or dad dismiss the idea of assisted living fearing it would end their independence and life as they know it? Do they think assisted living homes are more like nursing homes of the past? We want to reassure you and your senior loved one that assisted living communities such as MorningStar at Jordan Creek are not a nursing home. In fact, we do not offer skilled nursing services but rather provide assistance with the ADLs (activities of daily living), along with engaging activities and other services intended to improve and enhance quality of life.  

It is important to a senior’s overall health that they receive proper care as the website Aging.com reports, “Functional status and the ability to care for oneself have a significant impact on a senior's quality of life. Unmet needs for help with activities of daily living can lead to malnutrition, poor personal hygiene, isolation, illnesses like urinary tract infections (UTIs), and falls.” In fact, studies show seniors getting assistance with the ADLs allows them to feel like they are in control of their life again and helps them regain a sense of self-worth and purpose. 

At MorningStar at Jordan Creek, we know seniors have a lot to offer and the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless. We act upon this truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Our beautiful community offers 56 graciously appointed suites for assisted living in a variety of floorplans. In addition, the Reflections Neighborhood provides 29 secure suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. 

We also offer respite care for those recovering from surgery or an illness, as well as short-term stays from one week up to a full month to see if we are a good fit. For trusted memory care or assisted living Des Moines area seniors and their families can count on, visit our website or contact us for further information.

MorningStar Senior Living’s communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest memory care or assisted living Des Moines and the surrounding area offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at Jordan Creek. 

Source: agingcare.com/articles/activities-of-daily-living-why-this-measure-matters-186853.htm